Bosnia and Herzegovina is home to a diverse range of festivals and celebrations, reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage and modern creativity. From world-class film festivals to local folklore events, these celebrations offer visitors a unique window into Bosnian life. Whether you’re attending a major international event or a small-town celebration, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s festivals are filled with energy, passion, and a warm sense of community.
The Sarajevo Film Festival is one of the largest and most prestigious film festivals in Southeast Europe. Founded in 1995 during the Siege of Sarajevo, the festival began as an act of cultural resistance, showcasing the resilience of the city’s creative spirit. Today, it attracts filmmakers, actors, and cinema enthusiasts from around the world. Held every August, the festival screens hundreds of films, from international blockbusters to independent local productions. The red carpet events and open-air screenings in Sarajevo’s historic city centre make this an unmissable cultural experience for any visitor. Pro Tip: Book your tickets early as this popular event sells out fast, and don’t miss the chance to catch a film at the stunning National Theatre.
The MESS International Theatre Festival is one of Europe’s oldest theatre festivals, first established in 1960. Held annually in Sarajevo, MESS showcases a variety of performances, ranging from avant-garde theatre to classical productions. Over the years, it has attracted renowned directors, actors, and playwrights, turning Sarajevo into a cultural hub for the performing arts. For theatre lovers, MESS offers a diverse programme that spans multiple venues across the city, providing an immersive cultural experience.
For music lovers, Mostar Summer Fest is one of Bosnia’s most vibrant festivals, held each year in the stunning city of Mostar. This multi-day event brings together some of the best regional and international bands, offering a lively mix of rock, pop, and electronic music. The festival is set against the backdrop of Mostar’s historic Old Bridge, creating an unforgettable atmosphere as music fills the warm summer nights. In addition to the music, the festival offers a range of cultural activities, including art exhibitions, workshops, and performances.
Sevdah is the soul of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s traditional music, and the Sevdalinka Festival is an annual event that celebrates this unique genre. Held in cities across the country, the festival features performances by renowned Sevdalinka singers and musicians, reviving the melancholic, heartfelt songs that have been passed down through generations. Sevdah’s themes of love, loss, and longing are deeply embedded in the country’s cultural identity, and the festival provides a rare opportunity to experience the beauty of this musical tradition up close.
One of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s quirkiest local traditions is Cimburijada, held annually in the town of Zenica to celebrate the first day of spring. Known as the Festival of Scrambled Eggs, locals gather at dawn along the banks of the Bosna River to cook and share large quantities of scrambled eggs, symbolising new beginnings and the renewal of life. The festival includes music, picnics, and a strong sense of community spirit. Visitors are warmly welcomed to join in the celebrations, making this a unique and unforgettable cultural experience.
Held every summer in the Krajina region, the Una Regatta is a thrilling water sports festival that takes place along the emerald waters of the Una River. Participants can join in the rafting competitions or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere, which includes music, food stalls, and family-friendly activities. The regatta is a celebration of the region’s natural beauty and draws adventurers from across the country. Whether you’re taking part in the action or cheering from the riverbank, the Una Regatta offers an exciting and scenic way to experience Bosnia and Herzegovina’s great outdoors.
The Sarajevo Winter Festival is an annual celebration of the arts, held during the cold winter months. The festival features performances, exhibitions, and installations across a range of artistic disciplines, including music, theatre, film, and visual arts. With venues scattered throughout Sarajevo, from theatres and galleries to open-air spaces, the festival brightens the city’s long winter nights with creativity and cultural exchange. Visitors can experience everything from contemporary dance performances to traditional Bosnian music, making it a highlight of the city’s cultural calendar.
